OMA and we will breathe new life into the Perth concert hall

OMA Australian office and Perth-based architecture studio With Architects have unveiled the building’s design. repair Perth’s heritage-listed concert hall, a 51-year-old heritage-listed building, is a prime example of mid-century brutalist classical architecture. The redevelopment, which will begin in 2025, will create a new home for the Western Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO), which has used the hall for decades, while maintaining the architectural integrity of the building. The OMA and With design incorporates contemporary rehearsal and performance spacesimproved public spaces, upgraded food and beverage facilities, and improved indoor seating for improved views.

Perth Concert Hall, completed in January 1973, is the first concert hall built in the country after the Second World War and opened just nine months before the opening of the Sydney Opera House. Originally designed by architects Geoffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, its distinctive feature is the use of custom concrete, an innovative technique that gives the building’s façade distinctive textures and patterns. This cultural landmark hosts over 160 events annually and is an important destination in the city.

all images courtesy of OMA unless otherwise noted

TRANSFORMING A 51-YEAR-OLD HERITAGE BUILDING

The plans for the reconstruction of OMA Australia, in collaboration with With the Architectural Studiostrives to preserve the qualities of the original building while introducing new architectural elements. “The Perth Concert Hall – both in its architecture and the performances it hosts – is of great cultural significance to Perth.” notes Paul Jones, director of OMA Australia. “Our design will maintain the auditorium’s architectural integrity and world-class acoustics while creating new public spaces that better connect the auditorium to the community.”

In addition to state-of-the-art performance infrastructure, the redesign provides improved accessibility from street level, making the venue more inclusive for all users. The architects provided direct access to the second level lobby from the north and south sides of the building. A red-carpeted walkway made from recycled brick transforms the north plaza into a public courtyard leading from St. George’s Terrace to the lobby. On the south side, new stairs and a lift lead to a terrace overlooking the Swan River. The transformation addresses long-standing efforts to provide a home for WASO, which also supports Western Australian Opera and Ballet. Additionally, expanded backstage facilities will streamline production processes, support performers and enhance the overall experience for artists and audiences.

on the south side, new stairs and a lift provide access to a terrace overlooking the Swan River.

lobbies become meeting places for the cultural community

The second level foyer will become the new main entrance to the auditorium, which will retain its renowned acoustics while introducing a new seating layout. The lobby, extending towards the Swan River, will feature new bars and a terrace, offering additional event space. The first and second level lobbies will be renovated while maintaining the iconic red carpet and incorporating additional interior materials. The first level lobby will function as a musician’s lounge during the day and will become a visitor’s area during performances. A new staircase, complementing the existing spiral staircase, will improve movement between floors.

OMA and With Architecture Studio are also prioritizing enhanced safety and regulatory compliance, including improvements such as enhanced lighting and family-friendly features that create a safe environment for all visitors. A fully automated stage lift will facilitate more efficient production logistics, allowing the venue to host a wider range of performances. Open spaces will be landscaped to accommodate events and festivals, helping to revitalize the site. These improvements are in line with the broader goal of enriching Perth’s cultural fabric by making the Concert Hall a community gathering place.

The first and second level lobbies will be renovated while maintaining the iconic red carpet.

the location is scheduled to open in early 2028.

The project will begin with site closure in late 2024, followed by contracting and construction to begin in 2025. The construction phase is expected to last until 2026 and 2027, with the facility scheduled to open in early 2028. Once completed, Perth Concert Hall will strengthen its role in Perth’s cultural scene, offering world-class performance venues and enhanced public amenities for future generations.

open spaces will be landscaped for events and festivals | image via Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.

project information:

Name: Perth Concert Hall | @perthconcerthall

architect: OMA | @oma.eu

location: Perth, Australia